2024 Lincoln Nautilus vs 2023 Lincoln Aviator

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator presented a sophisticated and modern design, with a choice of powertrains that included a standard twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Available in both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD), the Aviator offered a plug-in hybrid option in the Grand Touring and Black Label Grand Touring trims, which combined the V6 with a 75-kilowatt electric motor and a 13.6-kilowatt-hour battery pack. The Aviator's exterior was marked by a successful execution of Lincoln's modern design language, although the wheel designs on the Black Label Grand Touring were considered too plain for its price point. The interior was luxurious, featuring high-end materials and a swanky simulated suede headliner, but some chrome detailing and stitching were criticized for appearing cheap.

In contrast, the 2024 Lincoln Nautilus debuted with a more sophisticated and streamlined exterior, featuring a new grille design with LED lighting that illuminated the Lincoln star logo. The rear of the vehicle mirrored this horizontal aesthetic with a full-width animated LED light bar and dual exhaust ports. The interior of the Nautilus was a highlight, boasting high-quality materials, ambient lighting, and a full-width screen that served as the crown jewel of the cabin. The Nautilus maintained traditional Lincoln design elements, such as the piano key shifter, and offered an optional Jet Appearance Package for an additional $3,000, which included two-tone paint and black exterior trim.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring, a plug-in hybrid, delivered an impressive 494 horsepower and 630 pound-feet of torque, despite the added weight of its electric motor and battery. It offered 21 miles of electric driving range and an average of 23 mpg in hybrid mode. The Aviator featured multiple driving modes, including Pure EV, Preserve EV, Conserve, Normal, Excite, Slippery, Deep Conditions, and Tow/Haul, allowing drivers to optimize performance and efficiency. During testing, the Aviator achieved an equivalent of 163.4 mpg when relying heavily on electric power. The vehicle's handling was enhanced by a Dynamic Handling Package with an adaptive-damping Active Glide suspension, providing a smooth and quiet ride, although it lacked the fun-to-drive factor.

The 2024 Lincoln Nautilus came standard with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. For an additional $1,500, buyers could opt for a hybrid setup, which increased output to 310 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, with an EPA estimated 30 mpg in combined driving. The Nautilus hybrid offered a range of over 600 miles, although it fell short of the Lexus RX hybrid's fuel economy. All Nautilus models featured AWD and five drive modes, with an available adaptive suspension for enhanced performance. The hybrid's continuously variable transmission (CVT) was noted for its smooth operation, making the Nautilus a capable, if not thrilling, driving experience.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator prioritized comfort with features like a four-zone automatic climate control system, heated and ventilated seats, and massaging 30-way Perfect Position front seats. The second-row captain's chairs were spacious and supportive, but the third-row seating was cramped and best suited for children. Cargo space was limited with the third row in use, offering just 18.3 cubic feet, but expanded to 77.7 cubic feet with the seats folded down.

The 2024 Lincoln Nautilus excelled in interior comfort, especially in the Black Label trim with 24-way Perfect Position front seats that included a massage function. Rear passengers enjoyed 43 inches of legroom, surpassing competitors like the BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GLE. The Nautilus featured the Lincoln Rejuvenate feature, combining massage, lighting, and screen images for relaxation. Cargo space was generous, with 36 cubic feet behind the second row and 71 cubic feet with the seats folded down, although the Nautilus was limited to seating for five.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator was equipped with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Alexa integration, and a navigation system. However, it ran on the outdated Sync 3 software, which struggled with voice recognition and navigation accuracy. The Aviator also included a 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D audio system, wireless charging, and a Phone As A Key digital key system. The digital instrumentation and head-up display were praised for their visibility, even with polarized sunglasses.

The 2024 Lincoln Nautilus boasted a stunning 48-inch curved display, with a digital dash and customizable sections for various information. An 11.1-inch touchscreen handled basic infotainment duties, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The Nautilus included Google maps, Alexa Built-in, and over-the-air updates, but the touch-sensitive steering wheel controls were criticized for being distracting. Wireless charging and multiple USB ports were standard throughout the cabin.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator featured the Co-Pilot360 suite of driver aids, including adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assist. The Aviator's safety tech performed well on highways but struggled in dense traffic. The Aviator received a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2024 Lincoln Nautilus included the Lincoln CoPilot 360 suite, with features like lane-keeping assist and emergency braking. The standout feature was the Blue Cruise 1.2 technology, offering hands-free driving on pre-mapped highways. The Nautilus had not yet been rated by the NHTSA, but the 2023 model received high marks for crash protection. The IIHS rated the 2024 Nautilus as "Good" in crashworthiness.